SINCE ITS INCEPTION IN 1993, THE EU HAS NEVER FACED A MORE STIFF CHALLENGE FOR SURVIVAL. HERE'S WHY.
The 6 founding fathers of EU had envisioned a united and peaceful Europe in the future. Its been mightily successful so far. The addition of Spain and Portugal had bolstered the political, economic and diplomatic clout of the EU. Countries like Turkey have clamored to become a member. However it faces an existential crisis like never before .
HERE ARE SOME FACTORS WHICH I HAVE IDENTIFIED FOR THE SAME:
1. Brexit
Since its formation, no country has dared to accede from the EU> However, UK did the unthinkable and is now formally out from Feb 1, 2020. I believe this will start the "domino effect" which will add fuel to the fire of secessionists i.e. the disruptive forces in various countries.
2. Wave of nationalism
Just like America (here I refer to you MR TRUMP), various right wing parties have gained votes in nations like Austria, Hungary, Italy and Slovenia. The right wing parties incite feelings of patriotism and disrupt the pan-european feelings. This shall be a major roadblock for EU in the long run.
3. Exit of Angela Merkel.
Perhaps there is no current major politician except Emmanuel Macron (French PM) who has rallied the European nations together with such tenacity and vigor. The German Chancellor has decided to not stand for re-election after her current term expires in 2021. This is a major blow as she was completely pro-EU.
4. Corona Virus.
Let me explain before you judge me. If COVID-19 has made one thing clear then its the lack of global co-operation to fight threats against humanity. It seems all unifying efforts are in vain. This has been clear in Europe as well where there has been no concrete efforts to work together. This implies non- coperation and vague efforts.
5. Migration
Open borders are a feature of EU. If you have passport of any one EU nation, you can go in any other one. This has created an influx of immigrants in prosperous nations like Germany, France and UK. This has been a major source of resentment for almost all nations and an issue exacerbated by war, poverty, terrorism and has even lead to Islamophobia.
CONCLUSION; I think EU will survive in the short term but its long term prospects are really bleak. However there is hope that the bigger nations take an initiative and try to resolve the differences. After all a peaceful Europe means a peaceful world.
THANKS FOR READING. COMMENTS WOULD BE APPRECIATED. ADIOS!
IMAGE CREDITS @ the telegraph, the quint,the BBC,